Preparing For Winter: How to Winterize Your Home

As summer’s warmth fades and crisp fall days settle in, winter’s arrival isn’t far behind, bringing chilly temperatures and potential challenges for homeowners. Now is the perfect time to prepare for the colder months with our winterization tips. By tackling a few simple tasks, you can shield your home from harsh winter conditions, which can help prevent costly repairs, and save on energy bills.

 

Before you cozy up with a mug of cocoa, see our clever winterization checklist and ensure your home is fully prepared to face the winter chill.

 

Why Winterize Your Home?

Winter can be a precarious season for your home. Everything from minor problems like heat loss from clogged gutters to larger issues like frozen pipes and exterior wear from weather can put a serious crimp in your cozy home—particularly for new homeowners who aren’t as experienced with seasonal maintenance routines. Take the appropriate steps to minimize the wear and tear seasonal weather can have on your home

Essential To-Do List for Winterizing Your Home

Bundling up your home might be the wisest thing you do to prepare for colder months. So, we’ve compiled a simple winterizing to-do list to help ensure your space is warm, efficient, and well-prepared for the colder climate.

1. Seal Windows and Doors

Take a peek at all of your home’s windows and doors looking for any gaps or sources of ventilation. Even a slight opening can result in significant heat loss. Consider adding storm doors for added protection and insulation from the elements.

2. Inspect Gutters

Although you might prefer to stroll through a pumpkin patch with a warm beverage, fall is an ideal time to glance at your gutters and be sure they’re clear of debris or leaks to keep rain and snow moving through and away from your roof.

3. Check HVAC

You’ll want to be sure your heating system is running in tip-top condition well before you rely on it,and identify any inefficiencies before they become more significant issues from more regular use. Check with your local power company and see if they offer energy-saving assessments.

4. Fireplace Maintenance

Dreaming of those chilly evenings spent by the fire? Remember to ensure your fireplaces are in proper working condition before warming things up. It’s a good idea to check to ensure everything is functioning properly, which for electric units might include checking the inlet and outlet from the heater for dust and cleaning the glass from smudges and dust. If you’re unsure about what to do it’s a good idea to refer to the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance before its first use of the season.

5. Prepare Outdoor Equipment and Furniture

Autumn is the perfect time to transition your outdoor spaces into winter-friendly areas. Disconnect any hoses, bring in gardening tools, and inspect your winter equipment, like leaf and snow blowers, to ensure they’re ready for use. Don’t forget to cover or store outdoor furniture to reduce wear and tear from the elements.

6. Prepare Landscaping and Outdoor Plants

Bring potted plants under covered areas and be ready to swath your sensitive plants with frost covers to keep from losing any of your landscaping to the bitter cold.

Additional Tips for New Homeowners:

Protect Pipes from freezing by wrapping any exposed pipes with insulated pipe wrap and other insulation fittings before the first cold night to prevent freezing and bursting, which can be costly to repair. 

Reverse Ceiling Fans to a clockwise rotation to help circulate air and move hot air lower.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors and ensure they work correctly, as heating systems can increase the risk of fire and leaks. 

With a proactive approach to the changing seasons, you can protect your property and your wallet from costly surprises. And because a properly winterized home is safer, more comfortable, and more energy efficient, you’ll be able to enjoy the seasons with peace of mind.